/  Benefit Programs / Resources for Navigating Eligibility Changes / SNAP Changes for Noncitizens / Noncitizen Eligibility

Who Is Still Eligible for SNAP?

Recent changes to federal law have narrowed SNAP eligibility for some groups, including refugees and asylees. However, the following groups are still eligible if they meet all other SNAP eligibility rules: 

  • U.S. citizens, including naturalized citizens 
  • Lawful permanent residents (green card holders) 
  • May be eligible after holding qualifying status for five years. See “The Five-Year Waiting Period” section below for more information. 
  • Cuban and Haitian entrants 
  • Eligible with no waiting period. 
  • Compact of Free Association (COFA) citizens 
  • Eligible with no waiting period. 

If you do not belong to one of the groups listed above, you may no longer be eligible for SNAP. However, U.S. citizen children or other eligible household members in your home may still qualify. 

Woman at table with man

The Five-Year Waiting Period 

Most lawful permanent residents (green card holders) must wait five years before they can get SNAP. The five years generally start from the date they first received a qualified immigration status — not necessarily the date on their green card.  

Some lawful permanent residents do not have to wait five years. Exemptions may include:  

  • Children under 18  
  • People receiving certain disability-related benefits  
  • People credited with 40 quarters (about 10 years) of work in the U.S., which can include work by a spouse or parent  
  • People with a U.S. military connection (active-duty members, veterans, and certain spouses and children)  
  • Refugees 

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